Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Approximate driving time is 25 minutes and distance is 18 miles.

Driving directions from Los Angeles International Airport: Follow signs to take I-105 east to I-110 north. Exit to 6th St and turn left on Olive. Turn left on 5th St and left again on S Grand Ave. The hotel is on the right.

Getting there: The best option from the airport is a shuttle ($5–$15; fees subject to change without notice), or a rental car.

Getting around: Within the immediate downtown area, there are several transportation options. The DASH transit system (less than $5) is a good way of getting around downtown, or guests can use taxis. The Metro Subway (less than $5) is a convenient way to reach Hollwood, Universal City, and Long Beach. For other destinations, a rental car is the best option. Valet parking ($16–$25) is available at the hotel. (All fees subject to change without notice.)

Checkers Lounge - This casual lounge off the main entrance is popular for cocktails and light fare.

Amenity highlights: Though the hotel is compact, there are plenty of public spaces to enjoy. The fine restaurant offers patio seating, the lobby lounge is casual and relaxed, and the rooftop pool area has an air of privacy even though it’s poised in the center of downtown. A spa menu is offered poolside.

Insider tip: Wonder where the often steady stream of pedestrians is headed on the walkway that parallels the lobby lounge? The landmark 1920s Los Angeles Central Library, housing more than 2 million tomes, sits right behind the hotel.